Trust

Artaxerxes was the leader of mighty Persia. He must have wondered constantly about the people around him. What were their real motives?

Did some primarily desire to amass personal power and advance their own careers? Did others engage in deception and manipulation?

But about Ezra there was no doubt: He was a man who merited complete trust. So when Artaxerxes sent Ezra to govern Judah, he gave him extraordinary freedom to act and spend money in the way he felt best.

In addition to receiving silver and gold that was collected, Ezra was given access to the royal treasury, from which he could draw for “the needs for the house of your God” (v. 20). All treasurers were to give Ezra whatever he needed, and no taxes were to be collected. His power was supreme, and he was authorized to judge and even execute anyone as he deemed necessary.

Ezra had earned this trust because he was a man of integrity. He was trustworthy, a truly unique and rare characteristic. In fact, the Bible tells us, “Many a man proclaims his own loyalty, but who can find a trustworthy man?” (Proverbs 20:6)

Like Ezra, God’s people today are called to demonstrate to the world that we are people of integrity. This means not being motivated by wealth or power…refusing to cheat, steal, or manipulate…being led by a higher purpose…and demonstrating that we speak the truth and seek first the Kingdom of God. As Paul wrote, we are to be “found trustworthy” (1 Corinthians 4:1-2).

Today, seek to be found trustworthy through the things you do, the words you speak, the commitments you make, and how you handle the resources entrusted to you. Remember: You have been blessed so you can be a blessing (Genesis 12:2).